The Princess's Keeper - Closed{Sophie Jones X Elvenoff}

[Elvenoff]

Heavy hoofs thrashed upon the grassy plains with a purpose that no other could imagine nor want to live for what they carried upon them. It was now escape or death for both of them . Galron Shanara’s thick hands mastered the reins while small petite arms clasped around his waist. His green emerald orbs scouted the grassland’s hilly horizon, in hopes of reaching the Darkmere forest by sunset. It was the only place that he could managed to evade the King’s guard that was sent to bring him and the owner of the small arms that held firmly around his waist.

Tilting his head slightly, he looked over his shoulder, cursing the stinging black strands of hair that slapped haphazardly across his eyes. All is well so far as his glare found nothing in the ever fading home of Persephone and her parents. The King and Queen. He sighed heavily for the damn situation that he was put into, but his loyalty was divided between Persephone and her parents, Persephone slightly winning out for everyday of the young ladies life, he was involved with her from playing swords to playing monsters, he was there for her. So when she walked up and asked him to help her, he didn’t blink an eye, and now they were riding against the wind, against the odds, trying to reach the only place they would have a chance to figure out what he hell to do next.

He took a look at her while still scouting the area around them. He saw the pain, the confusion, but also the strength of determination in her eyes, the will to live her life as she wants not as she was told. Yes, war is hell, but so is sacrificing a loved one for something that would only work for a few years and then the same shit would happen again. Well, he wasn’t about to let anything happen to his little princess, not even a forced marriage to stop a war.

“When we get into the woods, I will drop you off at a river bed with a lot of uprooted trees. I want you to hide there till I get back, I have to lead the fools that they sent after us on a wild goose chase. I will return by the fall of the sun to get you. You do not leave the area that I drop you at. Do you understand little one.” he spoke the best he could while bouncing around on the heavy warhorse.

Writen by Sophie Jones

Persephone held on to her guardians waist for her dead life. She's ride horses before but never like this. It was usually for fun where the horse would prance and trot around the castle for her enjoyment. It was always nice and slow but this, this was the real deal where the horse runs with incredible speed and heavy stomps filled with purpose. She'd never thought the ride would be so scary itself. She felt that if she let go of Galron or even loosened her grip she would tumble off like an ungraceful log.

Persephone's stomach churned as the horse snorted with each galkoo. She couldn't believe she was actually doing this. Running away from her parents, her kingdom, her...husband. She wanted to gag at the thought. She'd ran away from it all. Part of this was very exciting, it wasn't very often that she left the castle due to her curse. She was always locked behind the large stone walls, unable to go out to town or for a walk but she did read books. Lots of them and she was anxious to see if what she read was true.

Despite the excitement in this whole experience Persephone was also scared, terrified actually. She ran away from her parents, the king and queen. She wasn't putting just her life in danger but also Galrons, someone she has known and trusted her entire life. He was always there for her, teaching her things and playing with her when no one else would. He was special to her and knowing that his life was now in danger because of her put a deep hole of guilt in her stomach.

Persephones bright blue eyes starred up at Galron grassy green ones when he had turned back. She didn't exactly know where they were going. Just that they were getting far away from the kingdom. When he began to speak Persephone strained to listen, the wind whipping past her ears. She only made out a few words to understand that ye was about to leave her in a forest. Something she wasn't so keen on. "You are going to leave me!?" Her soft voice shouted to be heard. "Are you mad!? I am not going anywhere without you. There could be monsters in those woods for all I know! What if I were to get eaten?!" She insisted as her light pink hair whooshes behind her and her grip around his waist tightens. She didn't want to part with him.

 

[Elvenoff]

The warhorse responded with each directional yank of the reins, massive muscle strained to shift the warhorse’s mass, along with the riders in the desired path. Jolts of a swift heal from Galron, sped the massive beast to a higher level of exertion. The sounds of braying and flaring nostrils filled the air about them, and yet Galron stirred the beast even faster, for he had no choice. They, the kings guards, would be on the much lighter, faster scouting horses, they will catch up. So he had to put distance, unfamiliar land as obstacles to lower the risk of them being overridden.

Persephone’s soft tone of voice echoed in Galron’s’ mind. Her fears of being left behind were valid reasons, but again he had no choice. He had to lead them away from this forest for this was going to be their home for a few days. It was a massive forest, stretching over three Barony’s and surrounding a good size lake, which would provide them with food and water for the duration of their stay. Not to mention, they would still be under the Kingdom’s domain and protection, they just wouldn’t know they were protecting Persephone and him.

He felt her arms tightening around his waist in a rebellious stand off. This was hard enough for him without her adding more worry or guilt for not doing as she asked of him. His gaze at the horizon turned to a glare searching for something that would help them gain more time. Something that would help throw off the trackers for at least a half day. Someplace he could drop her off and return later when he has completed in misleading their shadows.

Upon topping a small hill, Galron’s prayer were answered. There was an extremely heavy fog moving through the forest at and enormously slow drifting to the east. He smiled as he looked over his shoulder at her. “Well, you get to have it your way.” He sighed a relief, for he didn’t really want to leave her either, but to save her life, he is going to have to do things that he doesn’t want to do, he just had to keep telling himself that it was for her.

He rode into the heavy fog without slowing down, he wanted to get as far as he could, but the forest and fog had no intentions of working with him, as several tree limbs almost dismounted him. “Damn!” he muttered stopping the horse. He slid off the beast and raised his hands up to help Persephone off of the beasts back. “We will have to walk.” He stated the obvious. “It will be dark in a few hours so we need to find as much dry wood as we can. So if you see any pick it up. We will use the horse to help carry the load.” He added after reaching down and taking her hand into his.

 

[Sophie Jones]

As they topped the hill Persephone almost felt bad for the horse, itbwas being pushed to its ultimate limit in order to help them escape. She was almost scared that it would collapse right then and there. Persephone softly patted the horses stomach that heaved in and out with heavy breaths. She then faced forward with a hopeful smile when he had spoke, saying that they would stay together, but once she saw the fog the smile faded. "How are we going to ride in that?" She asked with concern but they were already riding at top speed.

The fog was thick, almost like a cloud. They were going to fall. The horse would trip on something and they'd go tumbling down. If they could barely see how would the horse? Persephone shrieked when branches started to whip past them, some nearly knocking Galron off the horse. A branch whipped past her face and Persephone ducked behind Galton's massive form in order to avoid and other injuries. She could already feel a warm drop of blood running down her face. Persephone's grip became tighter, almost as if to prevent Galron from falling off the horse but she knew if he fell she would definitely fall as well.

When they finally stopped Persephone breathed heavily out of fright and the adrenaline rush of riding blindly in the forest. Persephone quickly took his hand and jumped down ungracefully, tripping a bit on a twig but recovering. She never wanted to get back on that horse. Her whole bottom half was numb from the ride. Persephone fixed her dress, rubbing out the wrinkles, and wished she had changed her attire. It was a dead give away. Persephone wiped at the blood dripping from her cut and smiled up at him, giggling lightly. "My first battle scar." She jested. She didn't know how she was going to find wood in this fog but she didn't want to be completely useless. She nodded at his request and finally let go of his hand. "I'm sorry for asking you of this." She said sadly, hanging her head with guilt.

 

[Elvenoff]

He didn’t smirk, smile, or even looked at her more than a few seconds when she tripped. He did, however, nod to her when she recovered her balance without falling. A much better performance than a few years ago when they went trail hiking and she had her first encounter with the log crossing of the Vran Tributary river. He smiled when his memory replayed that most ungraceful log walking he has seen in his lifetime. Not to mention he had to dive in and pull her screaming form out of the river. “A lot better than Vran Tributary.” he had to do it!

His gaze watched her hands only briefly when he realized that she was straightening out her dress, her hands were flowing over areas that was sacred to her and not his place to gawk at her. He felt that burn in his face for he knew she saw his gaze upon her, he just hoped that his instant pulling of his eyes told her that it was purely accidental. “My Apologies.” he quickly offered to her.

His gaze caught her smile, followed by her hand coming up and showing him the smear of blood. He smiled when she began to giggle and declared her first battle scar. He turned to her and bowed “Dame Persephone.” he addressed her respectfully. He resumed his stance and looked upon her for a few moments. A heavy thought was upon his face and eyes for what seemed like ages, but then he just as fast as it came about it disappeared. He walked over to her, pulled out his dagger. “Everyday, from here on, I want you to take this dagger and strike a tree twenty five times.” he didn’t explain anything as he turned around and began walking deeper into the forest. “Grab the reins, Squre.” his voice cut through the fog with strength.

He knew she wasn’t going to follow the path of a warrior for she had a greater gift, but she can learn to protect herself, but first he had to build the strength in her wrists before moving on to other aspects of training. He gave her just long enough to start mouthing him, then he turned sharply to catch her muttering remarks.

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone rolled her blue eyes at his remark of Vran Tributary. Was she ever going to live that down? "The log was wet." She insisted stubbornly. "I just slipped and that was such a while back, I was only child." She said, trying to make up an excuse that didn't make her sound like a ckumsy oaf even though she practically was. For a princess she was as graceful as a pine cone. She was always tripping or stumbling over something, sometimes over thin air. Persephone had looked back up and caught his stare but did not think much of it. She knew in his eyes that she was nothing but a child, maybe even the spoiled kind, that he took care of for eighteen years. She was a princess. She never thought that he would think of her as anything else. To her he was a big brother figure. Someone who protected her and taught her new things every day. Sometimes she felt like he was more of her family then her own parents.

"No need for apologies." Persephone said nonchalantly as she began to look around the fog. She couldn't really see anything, just silhouettes of trees and shrubs. She hoped it would clear soon. When she looked back over to him he was bowing respectfully. "No don't do that. " She quickly said, looking around frantically as if someone had just seen them in the act. "Its just Persephone now. You are to greet me normally from now on. No bowing or Dame." She said sternly. It would be suspicious if he was too formal to her even though they were only in the forest. Persephone caught the deep expression on his face and was about to question it but before she could a dagger was placed into her fragile hands. "W-What?" Persephone stammered as she looked down at the sharp object. Was he really just going to hand this to her? She hasn't held a weapon in her entire life and here she was already handling a dangerous blade.

By the time Persephone looked back up Galron was already ahead of her. "Why do I have to grab the horse?" She mumbled with dissatisfaction as she grabbed one of the reigns. She kept her distance as she began to pull the mighty horse along, not wanting to be too close to the beast just in case he deciddd to take a chomp out of her hair. "Strike a tree.." She muttered. "What is a tree going to do? A tree isn't going to kidnap me. Whh would I need a dagger when you're here?" Persephone looked away from the horse only to catch a sharp glare from Glaron. She pursed her lips together and looked around as if she hadn't said a single word. Persephone kept the dagger in her free hand and she looked down at the golden necklace around her neck. It contained a big red ruby right in the middle that glowed every now and then. The necklace that kept her powers contained. She couldn't remember the last time she took it off but she knew that it resulted in the castle garden burning down. Her powers were uncontrollable, something that came at random and couldn't be predicted. Persephone sighed deeply and quickened up her pace so she was closer to Galron. "So what is the plan?" She asked waking behind his bulking frame.

 

[Elvenoff]

Galron listened to her grumbles with a light heart. He had his reasons for doing everything he told her. The dagger hitting the tree was to build up her wrists, to strengthen her fingers which would increase her grip. Later he would move her up to a short sword, than a longsword. He wanted her to pick up logs and carry them to help strengthen her upper body, her arms, shoulders so that she may get used to carrying equipment or armor. He was doing all of this to train her and get her ready for the day that he wouldn’t be able or around the help her anymore. Even taking the reins of the horse was to train her to respect her mount. For Ellie, his warhorse has pulled him from the field to aid, she has pushed herself to the brink of death like this very evening to do just what was asked of her. He didn’t want to tell her that all he has done was getting her ready for he was no longer able to protect her. But..

He turned and looked at her with heavy eyes. “Persephone.” he took a deep breath while looking at her. She was so young and innocent, not to mention a little arrogant. He blames himself for her being that way, but at the time it was a playful moments when she was young. The playing around arguing, The Standish up against your enemy was all play, but now it was the real thing where death was the end result instead of finding something else to do for the day. How could he tell her that this could be his last quest, for he surely will give his life before anyone gets to her and he had that feeling that this was it. The King had many men of talent and getting his daughter back would be on top of his list along with getting a peaceful end to this war. So, yes it was his last quest.

His orbs looked deep into her eyes and at the moment they were filled with a little worry, a little fear that this was her fault. She wasn’t stupid, nor naïve, she was young and vibrant. Stand offish, and arrogant, but level headed and the one thing that scared all, even him was her power that for some reason she wasn’t able to grasp yet. But… then again… His mind exploded for he never thought of this till now, But if he could think of it why didn’t her parents. Maybe this power of hers wasn’t able to be controlled. Then when she went to the other Kingdom, whomever had their way with her could have removed that control necklace and kill all the nobles of their enemies which would give them their lands, their peace and get their daughter back. He pondered this but it didn’t feel right, but the idea of seeking out a Sage to either help Persephone control this power or find away to rid her of it. Well the last part, getting rid of the power would be her decision.

He didn’t answer her question of what the plan was for he didn’t really know yet. He had to do some looking into things, However, He couldn’t wait to show her what he has been building out here for sometime now. He hoped she would like it. Well she was going to stay there regardless if she liked it or not. He muttered to himself.

He took a path into the heavier foliage. The walk was a difficult one even for him, but it wasn’t long before they entered into a clearing and seen this…

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5559/15084043798_6112f6d02a_z.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_FDktSEfmoSQ/TSSxPqRGBKI/AAAAAAAAAaw/C2qM06mA1f8/s1600/DSC04671copy.jpg

http://gallery.nen.gov.uk/assets/0812/0000/0706/hangleton_medieval_cottage_mid.jpg

http://images.travelpod.com/users/christine.roney/3.1245615167.room-in-medieval-cottage.jpg

"I hope you like this. We will be staying here till things calm down a little." He smiled for he worked hard building this over the years...

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone was clueless about Galton's true intentions about giving the her the dagger. Maybe she did know but just didn't want to accept the fact that one day he wasn't going to be able to protect her. That one day he will be gone. It sent a rush of sadness over her body each time she thought of it. She wanted to push the thought far away and so that's what she did.

Persephone looked up at him with a small childish pout when he had called her by her name and only her name. It sounded different. She wasn't so used to just being called by her name. There was always a madame or majesty afterwards. She didn't mind it all that much. She was close enough to Galron where she was comfortable with it. He has been with her all her life. Persephone smiled at the memory of her being young and always calling him Garoon because she wasn't able to pronounce his name properly. It was a cute and fond memory, something she was surprised to still remember. It was such a while ago. Back when she was only five or six.

When the news of the plan never came Persephone automatically assumed there wasn't one which made her a bit nervous. They were completely going on pure luck right now. There wasn't any kind of agenda besides stay alive and don't get caught. Another ping of regret settled in her stomach. She really should have thought this through more thoroughly.

The silence annoyed Persephone as they walked and she was starting to get frustrated. Why did they have to take the most difficult path. Even Galron was struggling. Persephone pulled and tugged at her dress every time it got stuck on a branch or root. She swatted at the bugs around her and whined silently to herself. This was pathetic of her. Even simple flies seemed to have the upper hand on her.

Upon reaching the cottage Persephone looked up at Galron with concern. "Here?" She said softly as she looked between him and the quaint house. "What if some resides there? We can not simply kick them out." She said, completely unaware that he was the owner of the place.

 

[Elvenoff]

The concern gaze that was upon Persephone face was noted by Galron while he overlooking the area. He knew it wasn’t much but he was proud that his own unskilled hands in craftsmanship turned out this well. Yes, it could have been better built, straighter walls, even surfaces, even dyed to a better color, but than again, he wasn’t thinking of having a female live here with him, especially one of high caliber as Persiphone. She deserved to live in a palace with elegant items, clothes, jewelry not this. His face changed from one of accomplishment to disheartened.

“No one lives here yet. I built this place for when I could no longer serve your parents.” his enthusiasm all but gone. He couldn’t even bring himself to look her. Shame for bringing her here instead of someplace more fitting, like a fancy Inn in Winegrove. He didn’t have much coinage, even for his service to the crown was purely done on respect and obligation to the king. He couldn’t shower her with jewels , gems or even gold. What he could only give her was safety, food, and a humble poor life.

“I will take you to Winegrove, in the morning. I can try to find work to put you up in someplace more fitting for you.” The pain of his failure riddled his voice. His shoulders sunken in, the embarrassment obvious to those whom witness his sturdy stance when serving in the Kings guard. His green orbs turning slightly red with internal anger. “I should have known better.” Escaped his lips while turning away from Persephone.

“We will look for a wizard that can take you into his care. He can help you with your power, or find away to take it away from you. If you wish it to be taken away. I can not help you anymore than what I have here. You deserve better than this.” He finally spoke of his failure to grant a noble her status rights. “Go inside, I will gather wood and food. There is man size clothing inside, maybe something will fit you better than that dress, well it will be less status symbolizing.” he didn’t look at her, just walked away…

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone was confused of why he had a sudden change of attitude but she quickly realised when he had admitted hit bit the cottage. Damn! She probably sounded like a complete brat to him. "I-I didn't mean here in a bad way." She tried to explain urgently. "I said that because I thought that someone else was living here! The house is very cute Galron." Maybe cute wasn't such a good way of putting it. "Well, its not cute." She tried again but found her explanation getting worse. She hadn't meant to hurt Galrons pride, that was the last thing she wanted to do.

The pain and failure mixed in Galrons voice was enough to make Persephone want to curl up in a ball and mope. She truly had hurt his feelings. He had probably spent so much time building this house with his own bare hands and she had made it seem that all that hard work was for nothing. She felt horrible. "We don't have to go to Winegrove. I didn't mean to say it like that.." She said solemnly, feeling her heart sink deeper down into her stomach at his saddened gaze.

When he spoke of a wizard taking care of her she looked terrified. She didn't want to be in anyone else's care. She only wanted to be with him. He was the only one she trusted. Did that mean he didn't want anything to do with her now? Persephone couldn't accept that. She wouldn't. As Galron began to walk away Persephone quickly walked to the front of the house and tied the muscular horse down to a post. She hoped this would hold him. Persephone quickly followed after Galrons tall figure, trying her absolute hardest not to trip like an idiot or get lost.

"Galron please wait!" She begged desperately as she came from behind him, reaching upwards and trying to get his attention. "I'm sorry if my words had offended you. You misunderstood. The house his amazing and its even more amazing knowing that you built it yourself. Me and my parents combined would not be able to build such a home. You should be filled with pride, it is lovely." She said grabbing his massive hand in her much smaller one. "I deeply apologize if my words came out wrong but please... Please just don't leave me." She pleaded. "You're the only one that I want to be with right now. I don't care where we are, I just don't want to.leave your side. You're the only one I trust in this world. The only one I can rely on." She tried to fight back the hot tears starting to form in her eyes. "Please do not leave me." She sobbed, holding his hand tighter. "I need you more than anything."

 

[Elvenoff]

Childish emotions Galron exclaimed to himself while walking away. He looked down the path that twisted and turned through the forest that opened up to the lake that was located just over the hill. This place was a strategic godsend with the thick thistles, the heavily veined ridden ground, and thick low tree limbs for it stopped all but the most determined to get through the natural mess of mother nature, which in all the time Galron spent here building his retirement home he has never had any humankind come near the place.

Galron phased back in from his admiration of the strategic decision he made to build here by the small, soft hand of the woman he has taken charge of. His orbs shifted from the trail to those of Persephones’ Her words reaching him just to verify that he was being childish in his moment of emotional depression. Her pleads to stay with her was moving but then again being left out in this world with nothing would make anyone say anything. He took a deep breathe and let it exhale slowly.

“I will not leave you, I do have to find someone that can help, for I can not help you in the ways of Mysticalism.” His tone was heavy but not uncaring. “When the sun does down we will go to Winegrove and get you clothing that works with the landscape that we find ourselves in. He still somewhat shamed for where he brought her. “Now, go inside. I will bring food for this evening dinner. It will not be much but it will be something to take the hunger away. I also have sun dried tea in the back if you wish to have some of that. I will be back in just a few moments.” His hand shooing her away.

He took a moment to look at her in a different way than a bratty little girl. She has grown up to be one very special woman. He wished he had the knowledge to help her with that power she yields, but if it is the last thing he does, he will find someone that can help her. He will always be at her side protecting her the way he knows how, but what this magic brings is a whole new issue to him and one that he’s not sure he can stand up against alone.

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephones face brightened instantly when he had told her he would bit leave her side. She smiled as brightly as ever, happy to know she still had a friend in this world. Being a princess was actually quite a lonely occupation. Especially when you were cursed. She practically wasn't allowed out of her room unless she was to be educated. Other then that she stayed in her own little luxury dungeon that was at the top of the tower. Persephone nodded at his words, understanding fully that even he couldn't possibly help her with something this unstable but still...she wished he could. She didn't know why hut she just didn't want help from any other person but him. She felt that he was the only one she needed right now. Persephone sighed deeply to herself. She really was clingy. She placed all her faith into Galron for everything, maybe that was a bit unhealthy. It made her rely on him for everything.

Persephone looked up at him and finally let go of his much larger hand. "A-Alright." She sniffled with a smile, wiping her eyes that were just about to flood with sad tears. When she looked back up she gave him an encouraging smile. "Capture whatever you can. I'll eat it no matter what it is." She assured him. "Just don't hurt yourself or get lost. I'll make you some tea too so don't stay out too long or it will get cold."

Despite his shooing hand Persephone still smiled and giggled slightly, just happy that he would still be with her. "Be careful." She began to walk back the way she came until she found the cottage. She was glad to see that the horse was still there. Persephone walked up to it and gave it a small pat on the back, getting a loud scoff in return. She stepped back inside the house and leaned her back against the stone wall. She took a deep sigh and starred at the dagger she still held in her hand. She wanted to help him. She didn't want to be the one relaxing while he did all the hard work, it wouldn't be any different then back at the castle. No, she wanted to help him with things like getting food or gathering wood. She wanted to be able to do those things with him. She knew she was weak and frail but she didn't want to be. It was the whole reason why she was in this mess in the first place. She was scared. She would teach herself to be strong just for him. Then maybe one day he could be the one staying back and making tea while she went out to hunt. The thought sent a proud smirk over Persephones lips.

With a new bright mindset Persephone walked into the other room in search for some clothes and like Galron said she would, she found them. They were quite guyish. She wondered if these were his clothes. Had he stayed the night here before? She'd ask him when he got back. Persephone set the dagger down on a small table and slipped out of her dirtied and torn dress but then there was one problem. How was she going to take her corset off by herself? She couldnt reach the back laces herself so there was always a night maid that helped her out of it. Persephone looked back down at her dress. She didn't want to put it back on. Maybe she'd ask Galron to help her take it off....

Persephone shook her head. That was way beyond his duties. He wouldn't do such a thing. Persephone signed and decided that she was just going to have to leave it on for now. Slipping on the clothes she found Persephone looked down at herself. She looked ridiculous. The shirt qqas much bigger on her petite frame and dropped all the way down to her hips. The collar of the shirt drooped down low until it peaked just above her breast. The pants went just below her knees and could hardly stay on. It was very unflattering. "I will definitely be needing my own wardrobe." She sighed. She looked donw at her forearm and frowned. She had a deep, long scar there that she usually kept covered up with her usual long sleeved dresses. Thinking about how she got it was depressing so she decided to focus on making the tea.

The only problem was that she didn't know how to make tea.

She wouldn't give up though. She wasn't going to do that anymore. She'd find a way.

 

[Elvenoff]

Galron took a few strides away before turning around and watched Persephone make her way down the path toward the cottage. Her walking prowess in the forestry still needed much work. She would be getting enough training in forestry walking soon enough. Then it hit him as he continued to watch her walk away. He realized just how much she has grown over the years. She was a fully figured woman and now he understood why he had so much trouble with the Squires when she made her way to her lessons. Well, he definitely had to sharpen all of his weapons to get them ready for that first foolish boy whom made that attempt to cross that line before she was willing. He shook his head with just how much she has grown. It was only yesteryear that she was playing with dolls. He sighed heavily as it also dawned upon him just how old he was getting. He had to get her started upon her warrior training as soon as possible before his time was over.

He turned back around and headed out into the forest to look for whatever he could find for dinner. Again the thought of how lowly this is struck him once more. She could have been eating her favorite meal at this very moment, but now she sits and waits for a meal that might only be a rabbit or a crow. She wasn’t suppose to live like this he muttered angrily. His mind drifted to the fact that he could go to the beginning of the forest and wait for the patrol to show up. They would take he back to her parents, but maybe now they would listen to her and dismiss the offer of marriage. He would gladly give himself up if they would just allow her to chose her own path of life. But then her pleas of the past haunted him. Begging him not to leave her and if he did turn them in to the patrol, he would be shackled and imprisoned, therefore breaking his oath to her about staying with her. No he was going to ensure that she lives the life she wants to live.

He dropped the thought as he heard a heavy ruckus behind him. He pulled his sword and held it by the blade. His eyes squinted while he gazed through the heavy foliage hoping to find what made the noise. There! His mind exclaimed upon seeing a shadow moving across the foliage. He adjusted his hold upon his sword and began walking toward the shadow. “I see you, you might as well come out.” He exclaimed, his sword coming to a prepared stance. “Come out!” He yelled once more, but the only thing that came out was an arrow that struck his upper left shoulder then another one hitting his lower chest on the left side. He could taste blood as he advanced upon the shadow, another arrow was deflected my Galron’s sword. Swinging with all his might, the sword cut through the foliage like a hot knife through a stick of butter. He heard a female gasp when the tip just sliced the fabric that covered her abs. “I Yield.” the voice cried out as his sword tip came to her throat.

“Step out now!” his voice was slightly weaker, his eyes borrowed upon the small fame that stepped out. “What the hell are you doing out here child!” Galron shouted for the young red haired girl was no older than Persephone was. “I’m here for your bounty.” She bluntly came clean to her intentions. “You were good at losing the kings guard, but no me.” her voice was cold and Galron instantly knew what she was. “So you came out here looking for fame huh. Let me tell you it isn’t worth the hardship.” Galron swayed a little.

“Well, that is yet to be seen.” The woman spoke, her fingers slowly moving toward the quiver of arrows upon her back. “Don’t do it. You maybe fast but all I have to do is flick my wrist and you’re a dead little girl. Why don’t you just drop all of your weapons and start walking the way I came.” He forced her to moved with the point of his sword. When in reach he picked up the weapons and motioned her to move.

He was glad to see the cottage as the blood was now moving down his leg. He was feeling weaker that what he should be. He then realized that he has been poisoned and this nimp was just biding time for it to work against him. “PERSEPHONE!” Galron shouted as they were only a few yards away from the cottage..

 

[Sophie Jones]

All was going well for Persephone. She had made the tea after about three attempts and one shattered cup but she did it! She was actually quite proud of herself. She would be sure to rub it in Galrons face, even if it was a simple task, she felt accomplished.

Upon hearing Galron shout she placed the tea don and walked out of the cottage, holding up the pants with her hand. "I made the tea~" She began to chant before seeing the girl and his sword pointed at her. Also the two arrows stuck in his body. One on his shoulder and one on his lower chest. "W-What..happened?!" She shrieked running up to him and eyeing the girl. She had no idea what to do. She wanted to touch him but was scared to do so. She might make it worse. "What do I do? Are you okay? W-Who is she?" She was panicking. She didn't know what to do in this kind of situation. She wasn't educated for stuff like this!

 

[Elvenoff]

Galron handed over the woman’s weapons to Persephone, “I believe we have more than just the king’s guard to worry about.” he looked over at the woman then back to Persephone. “I’m slightly feeling weak, I believe the arrows are poisoned.” He muttered weakly. “I need you to take her inside and tie her up real good.” He looked at her with a little worry in his eyes. He knew if he passed out now things wouldn’t be in their favor when he woke up. “I will need your help once you have her tied up. Make sure you tie her up the best you can.” he added pushing the woman towards the cottage.

He walked in behind them, closing and locking the door. “She is a hunter, someone whom is paid to hunt down and bring back people. Your parents or your would be parents by marriage has sent her to get you back. We just have to find out which ones paid for her service.” Galron stated while he was making his way to the back bedroom. “Please bring water to me when your done.” His voice faded as he moved deeper into the cottage.

“So, you’re the little lady I have been sent to bring back.” The woman’s brown orbs fixated upon Persephone. She shook her head cleaning the raven colored hair out of her eyes. “So, What have you done for someone to pay so handsomely to have you brought in?” She smiled, licking over her dry lips with the tip of her tongue. “Come now child, Tell me… We are all friends here.”

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone wide eyes blinked as she was suddenly handed the quiver of arrows and a bow. What was she supposed to do with that?! She swung the quiver around her shoulder, huffing a bit since it was a bit heavy, well at least for her and her frail arms. Persephone glanced back up at Galron and visibly saw him weakening. This girl was after them too? But why? She's never seen this woman before but that wasn't important to her right now, it was the words that left his lips that was more important. "Poisoned!?" Persephone gasped. What kind of poison? As in the kind that could kill him? He couldn't die! She needed him! She couldn't stand the thought of being alone, without him. Persephone took a deep breath and decided to calm herself. Maybe it wasn't the killing kind. If that makes any sense. She didn't know what it was, for all she knew it could just make him weak. That's what she would tell herself for now. It was good enough to keep her from worrying too much.

"Tie her up. Right." Persephone nodded. Well this would be another first for her, tying someone up. Persephone followed quietly behind the two, watching closely. This would be great reference for the future. Maybe one day she'd have to do this, hold someone hostage with a sword. Once they were back inside the cottage she listened to his theory of why she was here and found it pretty reasonable. So they were sending more then knights after them now? She wouldn't be surprised. "O-Of course." Persephone said as he travelled back towards the bedroom. So much for the tea.

Being left alone with the woman was enought to make Persephone uneasy so when she started to speak it made her even more uneasy. It was reasonable for her to be afraid. Her words unsettled Persephone, were most certainly not friends. She shot arrows into Galron. They were far from friends. Persephone set the quiver and bow down off in another room and retrieved some rope from a chest, she wouldn't answer her intruding questions, it was no of her business.

"Its none of your concern." Persephone said, trying her best to seem strong and tough. She grabbed both of her wrist and moved them behind her back. She's done some knot tying before. This shouldn't be that different. Persephone began to tie the womans wrist tightly, rushjng but still trying to do an efficient job. She wanted to hurry and help Galron. After tying her wrist tightly she moved down to her ankles. "Who sent you to find me?" Persephone asked.

 

[Elvenoff]

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/93/95/87/9395876b2d3938063ed204a9638e82c6.jpg

Nadia winced when the rope was pulled tight around her wrist. Her teachings of expanding her wrist while being tied was in vein because she was distracted my the mutterings of Persephone. She silently cursed herself for this mistake, but it wasn’t everyday that she was captured and had that fact down to a routine, in fact this was her fist bounty mission and so far she needed much work. She looked across the room when she was asked whom sent her. Nadia didn’t think it was a big deal telling the girl, but she rather enjoyed watching Persephone’s nervous composure, and inexperienced skill in prisoner handling. No that she would do any better, for look where she is at the moment.

“Ouch! Do you have to tie it so tight?” Nadia trying to focus upon Persephone humanity. “I will tell you want you want to know, if you just loosen the knot just a little.” She smiled at Persephone. She allowed her eyes to flow up and down the frame of her captor, trying to make her even more nervous. “Your quite a lovely lady.” Nadia ran the tip of her tongue across her lips. Once again trying to make Persephone feel uneasy and hopefully make some kind of mistake so that Nadia could exploit and get herself free.

“You know your friend will die if he doesn’t get the antidote in him by sundown.” She looked out the small window as the sun was still slightly over the treetops in the horizon. So he has a couple of hours left. I could cure him if I wasn’t tied up.” Nadia decided to try to lay it on thick for she seen the admiration look upon Persephone’s face when they first got here. “How long have you known him?” She shifted her weight slightly exposing a little flesh as her jerking opened up a little to her twisting.

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone almost peeped out an apology when the woman had complained but quickly pursed her lips together and continued to tie. It was a source of habit, to apologize. It was polite but right now this woman did not deserve Persephones kindness. "I-I can not. If I make the knot too loose you will escape." Persephone insisted. Galron told her to tie her at the best of her abilities and that's what she was going to do. She didn't need this woman escaping and causing more trouble for them. Persephone looked away from her smile and went back to tying her ankles. Her words made he uncomfortable but she refused to get distracted. "Thank you but flattery isn't going to get you out of here." She assured her sternly but then she had mentioned Galron and how he might die.

Her tying slowed until it came to a complete stop. She had the antidote, or at least she says she does. "Damn." Persephone cursed under her breath. She couldnt decide if she should trust this woman or not. She didnt want to trust her but this was Galrons life, she couldnt take a gamble with something so important to her. She needed to cure Galron. Persephone took a deep sigh and began to untie the woman, doing a bit roughly as she was frustrated. Why did such an important decision fall into her lap? :You better not be fibbing to me." Persephone hissed moving back up to her wrist. "I've known him my whole life. He's always been there." She says as the ropes fall to the floor. "If you're lying to me I will happily shove one of those arrows in your mouth." Persephone threatened, meaning every word as she went to the other room and picked up the quiver and bow. "How can you heal him?" She asked urgently, taking one of the arrows out and holding it tight in her hand. Just in case she had to follow through on her threat.

If it meant saving Galrons life Persephone was willing to take a chance. Galron did the same for her.

 

[Elvenoff]

Nadia looked down upon Persephone when her tying slowed down, her smile coming to a fullness when the girl stopped trying and was in a state of uncertainty. Nadia almost made another comment in hopes to push the girl over the edge but she didn’t have too when the girl decided which was more important to her. The frustration was evident to Nadia when the girl began to roughly undo all the work she did in tying her up. Her brown orbs focused upon Persephone for a few moments. She wondered what in the hell happened to this girl that forced her to throw away a life of luxury for this, her orbs looked over the pitiful place.

She rubbed her wrist once the rope fell to the floor. The words uttered by Persephone echoed in her head forced her to smile. How charming this one was. She seemed so fragile and soft. Her whole life centered around her appointed Knight whom was now close to reviving from the paralyzing poison. She raised her eyes from her wrist to only see Persephone threatening her with one of the arrows. “Now love, that arrow works better if you use the bow with it. Nadia smiles while continuing to rub her wrist. “Tell me, What made you run from a life of luxury to this…place.” her hands gesturing to the home.

“My name is Nadia, by the way. I always wanted to meet a princess.” she bowed her head. “It’s such an honor to met you.” Her smile was one of multiple meanings. “Please, put the arrow down. It’s not needed. I don’t have to help your Knight. He will be fine in a few minutes.” She wanted to ease the worry that was obvious crushing Persephone heart.

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone looked at the bow in her other small, fragile hand. Well she knew a bow would be much better but she didn't know how to use one of those things, she'd probably shoot her own foot if she dared attempted to use it. It would be easier to just stab her with it. Persephone shuttered at her own thoughts. Its already been two hours and here she was thinking of ways to kill this woman. It was not right. She'd probably just force her to lick the poison off the arrows, that seemed less violent. Persephone sighed deeply. She really wasn't cut out for this stuff.

Persephone looked down at the dusty floorboards when Nadia had asked why she had left the castle. "I was being sold." She said though it wasn't quite like that. Was it? She was being given to a savage kingdom in order to avoid a feud between them and theirs. It felt like being sold.

The introduction was sudden and Persephone found herself curtseying out if pure habit. Damn. She shook her head and held the arrow and bow tighter in her grasp. "I am not a princess anymore." She assured. "So no need for the formality." She found it weird, that someone who tried to kill her beloved friend was suddenly being nice and chummy. This woman, well, Nadia made her extremely uncomfortable.

The worry of Galrons safety had been lifted from Persephone heart when Nadia told her he would be fine. Her expression had visibly lightened and she let out a happy breath but just as quick as the worry left it came right back at the realization Nadia had lied to her.

"I need you to leave." Persephone said pointing to the door. "I do not wish for any trouble. I just want to be left alone along with Galron. Please just leave us be." She begged.

 

[Elvenoff]

Nadia eyes narrowed when Persephone lowered her gaze to the bow but didn't bring it to bare she pondered as to why but wasn't long before she knew why. The princess didn't know how to use it. She had to fight not to laugh out loud but managed to keep it at a smile for not everyone learns how to protect themselves. Not when they have a whole keep of warrior to do the protecting for them.

She instantly forgot about the bow when Persephone lowered her head and answered her moments ago question about why she left the life of riches. The answer she got made her take a mental step back. "What?" She couldn't believe she heard the princess right for she swore she heard the word sold.. She wasn't a slave how in the hell can a princess be sold?

She let the question go when she noticed Persephone took a greater grip of the arrow with her fingers and rose her gaze upward. Nadia hands came up with a take it easy gesture. "I beg to differ with you M'lady. Just because you leave that keep of yours doesn't strip your royal blood away. You still will fetch a hefty purse to the one that brings you back. That will always be upon your head." Nadia shaking her head for here she was chatting with her one shot to have a better life and what is she doing? talking instead of tying up.

When Persephone pointed to the door and told her to leave, there was a moment of sorrow. She never really had any friends or bud's of her age that she was able to talk with on an equal level. But here and now she was rather enjoying the talk. "Look, I can help you and Galron. I can give you an extra set of eyes to watch the horizon for any trouble." What the hell was she doing? Nadia smirked for a moment but didn't change her wording. Besides she did find Persephone very attractive...

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone frowned slightly. Nadia was right about that. Even though she says she isn't a princess it doesn't change the fact that she actually is one and she will still be hunted and chased around as long as she is out here. The thought was very depressing for her. The whole day has been nothing but a dark cloud over Persephones head. She just wanted to have a nice, peaceful life. One where she could make her own decisions and marry someone she actually loves. Life was so much easier when she was younger. As long as she had the necklace in and someone watching her she could prance around the castle all she wanted. She could eat anything she desired and she used to demand that Galron be her husband. She didn't give him much of a choice back. She threatened to throw him in a dungeon if he didn't marry her. It was funny back then but now looking back at it it seemed pretty messed up. She was pretty demanding when she was younger.

Persephone was shocked with the sudden offer for help. Age didn't know if she was sincere or just lying again. "You are willing to help us?" Persephone asked with a skeptical look. "How do I know you are not lying?" She asked, her light colored eyes narrowing at Nadia. She had shot Galron twice. It isn't a vug shock that she did not trust her. "How do I know you aren't just going to kill my friend and take me back to the castle? Why do you even want to help me?" It was probably unwise to ask so many questions when she was offering her help but Persephone to back sure she wouldn't betray them.

 

[Elvenoff]

Nadia slightly tilted her head and looked upon Persephone with a puzzled look upon her face. It seemed like Nadia said something that made Persephone to travel somewhere else but here. She smiled for that gave her time to gaze upon Persephone without getting her angry for the gawking. She has always admired this Princess ever since she could remember. She always looked at her when the royal family came out on the balcony to address the people of the town. She was always beautiful on those sunny days, her hair would be gleaming giving hope to all those whom looked upon her. That is why Nadia is here, she wasn’t here for gold, wealth or anything except to rescue her for she thought she had been kidnapped by her only royal guard, for war changes people and she thought that maybe this Knight lost his way, but in the woods she seen that he was protecting her, that is why she changed her arrow from the poisonous one.

Nadia looked at Persephone with a uncertain face. “Love, I don’t know.” She looked down to the floor and tried to think of something but nothing came about. She could only tell her what her real reason for being here was. That would be better than nothing. So.. She sighed lightly and rose her head up so she could look into those gorgeous eyes. “I have always admired you. Ever since I seen you on the balcony of the new winters festival announcements giving by your father. You seemed to glow in the sunlight and ever since that day I have loved you from afar. When I heard that you were taken, I thought your royal knight lost his way and I came to rescue you, however, in the woods I seen he was protecting you all this time so I changed my arrow from the deadly poison to the weakening juice ones. I only have two of them and your knight is a big man so I knew one wouldn’t drop him so I shot him twice.

“Yes Love the arrow you have is the deadly poisoned one.” She stands up and kneels down, raises her wrist up to Persephone. “If you have any doubt of what I say, strike me dead with that arrow. If you believe me ask me to rise.” She kept her head bowed down..

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone didn't exapect the sudden confession. She was trying to help her all along? She was surprised and now also felt horribly guilty. Dear God she threatened her with her own bow and she was just trying to save her. She felt horrible, even more when she admitted to admiring her, even loving her, though she didn't think of it as a romantic way being the slight airhead that she was. Persephone had no idea that she could actually inspire people. She never thought of herself as someone to looked up to. I mean, she ran away from her own kingdom. That surely wasn't admirable.

Persephone took a step back when Nadia had suddenly bowed, telling Persephone to kill her if she did not trust her words. "N-No no no no!" Persephone quickly placed the arrow carefully into the quiver and set it along with the bow onto the floor. She went over to Nadia and gently grabbed her hand, pulling her back up to her feet. "There is no need to say or do things like that. I believe you." She said with a warm smile. Persephone knew she would never be able to lay a harmful hand onto this girl or to anyone for that matter. She couldn't take someone else's life. She wouldn't be able to take it.

"What you did was very brave Nadia and I really appreciate what you did. Even if it was a slight misunderstanding." She said with a small laugh. "I wish you would have said something earlier though. We could have avoided all the awkwardness." Persephone said letting her hands fall back to her side. "I think it is important that we tell Galron right away. He might try to attack you if you are still unbound." She admitted.

Truth be told Persephone had forgotten all about Galrons situation during the moments she was having with Nadia. Shoot! He wanted her to being him some water and help him with something. "I'll be right back. Please just sit tight." Persephone quickly filled a silver mug with water. "There is tea just right there, feel free to have any." Persephone said pointing to the tea she had initially made for her and Galron sitting on a small wooden table. She quickly walked into the backrrom where Galton had vanished off to. "Galron? Are you alright?" She asked with concern.

 

[Elvenoff]

Nadia had no other way to prove to the Princess that she was here to help except to give her the truth and then offer her life and yet that in Nadia’s eyes wouldn’t be enough if she was a Princess. So with a painful but readied heart she awaited for the blade tip to slice through her skin for the Princess was very angered and tired of what was going on in her life at this time. The words of being sold still haunted her mind while she awaited the final blow.

She opened her eyes and looked up when she heard the multiple no’s escaping over the lips of Persephone. She titled her head when she watched her put the arrow back into the quiver next to her bow and walked away from it. She looked up into Persephone’s orbs when she stood in front of her once again. She felt her hand being taken into the soft hands of the Princesses. A sheer moment of delight filled Nadia’s face for this was the first time she has felt the soft, warming touch of the woman she loved and admired. She stood with the gesturing of Persephone to rise. Nadia bit her lip, with a little shame, ’what am I doing. I’m a peasant not to mention a girl..’ She couldn’t help it, the feeling was strong in her for all these years she came to see Persephone every time she made an appearance. She even found a place she could watch her in the private garden in the keeps courtyard.

She lowered her head in respect when Persephone praised her for being brave, but stupid when she didn’t speak up sooner so none of this would have taken place. She wanted to go back after the Princesses’ hand when she released her and allowed it to fall back to her side. “Yes, I would hate to see that swing of his mighty blade toward me again” her brow arched over her orb. She definitely owed him a word of appreciation upon his chivalry. Any other knight would have slain her for shoot them twice with arrows, but not her Royal guard. He was a completely different caliber of a knight lord.

“As you wish.” Nadia remarked when Persephone had to excuse herself. She watched as the Princess filled a mug with water and headed back toward the rooms that her knight went just a bit ago. The worry was back on her face which Nadia looked confused about for the arrows were not deadly, but then it dawned on her….Loss of blood.. Her eyes widened and filled with fear for if she killed her royal guard by accident. She wanted to stand up and run back there with her but refrained from doing so. Instead she went and poured her some Tea first then she took off back toward the backroom with the same fear that was hitting Persephone..

********
Galron was laying on the bed with both arrows already pulled out of his body and tossed to the side of the bed. He had stuffed some of the beds sheeting into the holes to stop the bleeding, but the blood seemed like a lot but wasn’t. He didn’t answer Persephone, his breathing was short and somewhat quick. His chest rose and lowered with each breath he took.

“Is he ok!” Nadia’s voice came softly from behind Persephone’s shoulder. Nadia watched with great concern to what she has done. She bit her lip as she watched Persephone watching Galron awaiting for words that didn’t come, she became ridged with fear.. “I’m sorry Per….”

Her words were cut off by Galron’s huge Snore!

 

[Sophie Jones]

Persephone frowned and sighed deeply. "He is fine. Just sleeping." She mumbled with a small frown. Here she was worrying about the big oaf and he was fast asleep. She was tempted to splash the mug of water onto his ad wake him but she would let him rest. He well deserved it. Persephone set the mug down on a nearby stool and went to the side of the bed, picking up the bloody arrows that were so carelessly tossed onto the the floor. He could stepped on them he awoke.

She looked back at Nadia and gestures to the arrows "I suppose you could just wash these." She said looking back over to Galron sleeping body. She felt slightly bad for not coming in and helping him remove the arrows, eben though she didn't gave a single clue on how to, but still, she could always had tried. "We should leave him be for now." Persephone said before a deep grumble erupted from her stomach. She pursed her lips and blushed slightly. "Excuse me." She said politely. She was famished but she didn't want to wake Galron to go get food. That would be just plain rude.

Persephone stepped out of the back room and back to where they were before. "So Nadia," Persephone started as she tossed the bloody bows into a discarded wooden bucket. "Are you an archer? How did you learn how to shoot?" Persephone asked curiously. She wanted to know a bit more about Nadia since she would be joining them from now on.